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On January 29, 2020 the Prime Minister attended the reception for the symposium on the establishment of the International Joint Research Center for Zero-Emission Technologies held in Tokyo.
 
The Prime Minister said in his address,
 
“There is growing attention in the world to global climate change more than ever before. We must realize a carbon-free society as soon as possible. This is our responsibility to future generations. We cannot achieve the ultimate goal of a carbon-free society by merely extending existing efforts; disruptive innovation is necessary. To that end, we must collect wisdom from around the world. I proposed this idea at the Osaka Summit last year, and received the endorsement of the members of the G20 (Summit on Financial Markets and the World Economy).
 
The International Joint Research Center for Zero-Emission Technologies, which is being established here today, is aimed at implementing this global project. I am very pleased to celebrate the launch of this project with everyone gathered here today.
 
Last fall, Japan hosted the RD20 (international conference on clean energy technologies of leaders of national research institutions of the G20 member countries), bringing together research institutions of the G20 members. During that conference, five research institutions from the United States and Europe announced their participation in joint R&D activities, including the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft of Germany and the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission. Furthermore, I intend to develop this center into the world’s largest research center on disruptive innovations such as artificial photosynthesis and carbon recycling, bringing together leading researchers of R&D institutions around the world. With that in mind, I have asked the Nobel laureate Dr. YOSHINO Akira to serve as the leader for this international project. On the occasion of the launch of this center, I asked Director Yoshino to aim not only for zero emissions but also for ‘beyond zero,’ or the reduction of carbon dioxide, which has been increasing since the advent of the Industrial Revolution. Dr. Yoshino has told me that the loftier the goal, the harder researchers will work, filling me with confidence. As I have met him many times until now, I can attest to his passion to resolve environmental issues through innovation. I am also certain that he will instill that passion in young researchers and researchers from around the world, and undoubtedly achieve the ambitious goals we have set for ourselves.
 
Here, today, a carbon-free world was born. To earn such an appraisal from future generations, I hope that you will ensure the success of this global challenge. The entire world is paying close attention to your challenges. I have great expectations for your future endeavors. Thank you.”